Tackling early death in autism

Dr James Cusack

Autistica

James undertook his PhD at the University of Aberdeen where he studied how people with autism detect the actions of others. In his post-doctoral studies worked on the development of an automated measure of facial imitation for use in the study of autism, mood disorders and schizophrenia.

He has sat on a number of advisory panels discussing the role of research in autism, and was vocal in the production of the report; A Future Made Together and the publication; Educational Provision and Outcomes for People on the Autism Spectrum. He was part of a core stakeholder group which successfully campaigned for Scotland’s first ever autism strategy. James was also a member of Autistica’s own Science Review Panel since January 2014. From a young age James has also worked directly with families affected by autism, as well as having experience in clinical, educational and social care settings.

James is currently Director of Science at Autistica (an autism research charity).

Abstract

Research across Europe is beginning to uncover an appalling and unacceptably high risk of early death for autistic people. Recent research from Sweden has supported prior findings, finding that, on average, autistic people... [ view full abstract ]

Research across Europe is beginning to uncover an appalling and unacceptably high risk of early death for autistic people.

Recent research from Sweden has supported prior findings, finding that, on average, autistic people die 16 years younger than the general population. Markedly common causes of death include epilepsy in those with learning disability, and suicide in those with no learning disability. Autistic people also experience worse physical health than the general population and are more generally at risk of dying younger from a very broad range of physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, circulatory and respiratory conditions.

This inequality in outcomes for autistic people shown by this research data is shameful, but we must not forget the real individuals and families behind these statistics. Every death is a personal tragedy and a public outrage. These mortality outcomes must change now. That’s why Autistica published their report “Personal tragedies, public crisis”.

In this workshop, Dr James Cusack, Autistica’s Director of Science, will discuss the latest research findings on mortality in autism, potential new avenues of research and recommendations for health and care services which could help us achieve the outcome which we all seek: a long, happy, healthy life for autistic people.